AN AWARD-WINNING rock musical staged with a cast of young actors from Oxfordshire is heading for London’s West End.

Anti-bullying musical David v Goliath will enjoy a London run in 2012 and a UK tour next year.

And the production – performed by the Witchwood School of Rock – has scooped a top award, which was presented by Oxford author Philip Pullman.

Co-writer Lee Wyatt-Buchan said he was thrilled by the success of the show after four sold-out performances at Witney’s Corn Exchange in April and May.

He last week picked up the prestigious Diana Anti-Bullying Award from Mr Pullman, author of the His Dark Materials fantasy series, at New Beaconsfield Hall in Shipton-under-Wychwood, near Witney.

Mr Wyatt-Buchan said: “The youngsters were all totally dedicated to the musical and delivered on every level.

“The acting was excellent, the dancing was fantastic, and the singing second to none.

“The musical was written with a strong message and to be recognised in this way is truly amazing.”

The honour is part of the Diana Awards, established in 1999 in memory of the Princess of Wales. The show was nominated by the Anti-Bullying Alliance.

Mr Wyatt-Buchan said: “Following the shows, met some producers and signed a contract to go on a UK tour next Autmn and a London run in 2012.”

He said a professional cast would probably be hired for the West End shows, but added: “We still want to work with schools and provide school packs so that staff and pupils can talk about bullying.”

Most of the 20-strong cast came from the Stagecoach School in Witney and were aged 10 to 17, with one adult performer. The show tells the Old Testament story of David’s triumph over the mighty Goliath.

The original script and score of the musical is now available for schools nationwide to perform.

affrench@oxfordmail.co.uk